Moles are pretty common and usually nothing to worry about. They’re just clusters of pigmented skin cells and, when they remain the same shape and color, they’re typically harmless. But if you notice one starting to change—whether it grows, shifts in color, becomes itchy, starts to bleed, or develops a crusty surface—it could be a red flag for melanoma or another form of skin cancer. The earlier you catch these changes, the better the chances of effective treatment.
The ABCDE Rule: A Quick Guide to Spotting Concerning Moles
Dermatologists use a handy guideline called the ABCDE rule to help determine whether a mole might need medical attention:
- A – Asymmetry: One side of the mole doesn’t match the other.
- B – Border: The edges look uneven, blurry, or jagged.
- C – Color: There’s a mix of colors—brown, black, red, white, even blue.
- D – Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters—around the size of a pencil eraser.
- E – Evolving: It’s changing over time—getting bigger, darker, or just looking different.
If any mole checks one or more of these boxes, it’s best to get it evaluated by a professional sooner rather than later.
Other Skin Growths You Shouldn’t Ignore
While moles tend to get most of the attention, they’re not the only skin changes to watch. Here are a few others that could signal a problem:
- Actinic Keratoses: These are rough, scaly patches often caused by long-term sun exposure. They can be precancerous and may develop into squamous cell carcinoma if untreated.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: Look out for pearly or wax-like bumps, especially in areas that get a lot of sun like the face or neck.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: These often appear as firm, red nodules or flat patches with a crusty surface.
- Seborrheic Keratoses: These look like dark, waxy growths stuck to the skin. Though usually benign, they can sometimes resemble cancerous spots.
Signs That a Skin Growth Might Be Serious
Beyond what the ABCDE rule tells you, here are some other warning signs that something could be wrong:
- A spot that appears out of nowhere and grows quickly.
- Constant itching, tenderness, or bleeding.
- Color changes that spread beyond the original mole.
- A sore that doesn’t heal, no matter how long you wait.
What to Do If You Notice Something Suspicious
If you’ve spotted a mole or bump that looks questionable, here’s what to do:
- Check Yourself Monthly: Make a habit of examining your skin regularly using a mirror and good lighting. Don’t forget hard-to-see places like your back, scalp, and behind your ears.
- Book a Dermatologist Appointment: If something seems off, don’t wait. A skin specialist can take a closer look, do a biopsy if needed, and recommend treatment or removal.
- Protect Your Skin Going Forward: Use sunscreen daily, skip tanning beds, and wear protective clothing when spending time outdoors—especially during peak sun hours.
Real People, Real Stories: Why Timing Is Everything
Take Sarah, a 42-year-old elementary school teacher. She noticed a small mole on her arm but brushed it off, thinking it was just a normal part of aging. Months went by, and the mole grew and changed shape. When she finally had it checked out, it turned out to be melanoma. Fortunately, doctors caught it early enough to remove the affected tissue before it spread.
Now, Sarah is a strong advocate for skin awareness. “I kept putting it off,” she says. “If I’d waited much longer, I might not be here to tell the story.”
Smart Habits for Healthy Skin
A few simple habits can go a long way in protecting your skin:
- Know Your Genetics: If skin cancer runs in your family, you might be at higher risk—stay extra vigilant.
- Limit Sun Exposure: Try to stay indoors during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM) and cover up when outside.
- Use Sunscreen Daily: Choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30, even when it’s cloudy.
- Talk to Your Doctor: If you’re not sure what to look for, your healthcare provider can help guide you.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: They can increase your melanoma risk by as much as 75%.
Final Thoughts
Most skin growths aren’t cause for concern—but that doesn’t mean you should ignore them. Paying attention to changes in your skin and acting quickly can make all the difference. If you notice a mole or bump that looks suspicious, don’t shrug it off. Get it checked. A quick visit to the dermatologist could save your life.
